Year: 2009
Type: review
Abstract: Vascular complications are an important pathological issue in diabetes that lead to the further functional deterioration of several organs. The balance between endothelium-dependent relaxing factors and endothelium-dependent contracting factors (EDCFs) is crucial in controlling local vascular tone and function under normal conditions. Diabetic endothelial dysfunction is characterized by reduced endothelium-dependent relaxations and/or enhanced endothelium-dependent contractions. Elevated levels of oxygen-derived free radicals are the initial source of endothelial dysfunction in diabetes. Oxygen-derived free radicals not only reduce nitric oxide bioavailability, but also facilitate the production and/or action of EDCFs. Thus, the endothelial balance tips towards vasoconstrictor responses over the course of diabetes.
Source: Journal of Diabetes
Authors: Yi SHI, Paul Michel VANHOUTTE
Institutions: University of Zurich, University of Hong Kong
Language: English
Subfield: Physiology (medical)
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W2014946284